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How to Prevent and Treat Whiteheads and Blackheads

Do you get whiteheads and blackheads but aren’t sure what they are, let alone how to prevent and treat them? Here are your answers! A whitehead forms when oil and bacteria stay on the skin’s surface and cause the skin to bulge. Blackheads form when oil and dead skin cells are open to the skin’s surface. Oxygen then reacts with skin pigments and it creates the dreaded black dot. Here’s how to prevent and treat these bad guys that wreak havoc on your skin:

Get rid of any skin care and makeup products you have that contain oil. Look for non-comedogenic which means it won’t clog your pores.

Cleanse your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Try using a cleanser with glycolic or salicylic acids to keep dead skin cells out of pores.

Apply a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. Look for retinol and alpha hydroxy acids in the ingredients.

Use a toner to clean the pores. Remember that toners with alcohol can irritate and dry out your skin though.

Always remove makeup at the end of the day. Makeup can clog your pores very easily, leading to whiteheads and blackheads.

Exfoliate using a gentle facial scrub once a week to get rid of dead skin cells and trapped dirt and makeup. Avoid exfoliating more than twice a week because it could irritate your skin and cause your skin to produce more oil, which will in turn cause more acne.

Once a week also steam your face to open up clogged pores.

Try using a comedone remover or extractor tool. It helps to remove whiteheads and blackheads and should be used immediately after steaming the face.

Regularly use face masks. You can make your own using ingredients you already have in your kitchen or pantry. Honey is especially good for your skin and removing blackheads or whiteheads.

Never squeeze a whitehead or a blackhead. If you have a lot, see a dermatologist or get a facial and ask that they remove them professionally. Often, whiteheads will go away on their own in a few days if you cleanse your skin properly and don’t touch them. Whiteheads especially can scar if you pop and squeeze them on your own.

Do you get whiteheads and/or blackheads? What is your skin care routine? Do you get them professionally removed? Share with us your story!

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Lauren Stewart is a freelancer writer from Michigan. She enjoys writing about beauty, health and fitness! She is passionate about learning new ways to take control of her health and wellness and is a makeup and skincare junkie! You can contact her by emailing lrstewar@gmail.com.